R.I.P. - Sheila Jordan (†96, jazz singer), August 11, 2025

The Saxophone Singer

The jazz singer was able to translate Charlie Parker's famous saxophone sounds into song, and as a teacher, she passed on her knowledge and skills. Sheila Jordan has now died at the age of 96.

Her debut album, "Portrait of Sheila," was released in 1963 on the renowned Blue Note label. The singer was already 34 at the time, and the great era of vocal jazz was slowly drawing to a close. Not the best prospects for a recording career. However, Sheila Jordan had already made a name for herself on stage in the 1940s: she was adept at translating the saxophone solos of the famous Charlie Parker into song.

Born in Detroit in 1928, Sheila Jeanette Dawson grew up in difficult circumstances: her father was a deserter, her mother was a drunk. She herself would later struggle with addiction – but she received the recognition she deserved: As a teacher, she taught jazz vocals for almost three decades. Sheila Jordan died on August 11 in New York.

SHEILA JORDAN - SHEILA'S BLUES

Sheila Jordan, Cameron Brown - Dat Dere

SHEILA JORDAN - TORSDAGSTONER 1971

 

It must have come as a complete shock for her family.

 

Rest In Peace